Area guides

Where to stay in Merl: the park side of the city

5 min read

Parc de Merl with families and green lawns

Who it suits

Merl adjoins Belair to the south, wrapped around the Parc de Merl and the small Merl market square. Stay here for space, for the park, and for prices that undercut Belair by 20-30 EUR. It suits families with children — the park has one of the city's biggest playgrounds and a mini-golf — and travellers who want to run or walk in the morning without leaving the neighbourhood.

It does not suit anyone chasing nightlife or planning to spend heavily on tourist sights. Merl has few restaurants and no tram; every trip to the centre is a bus ride.

Getting to the centre

Bus 12 and 21 run to Hamilius in 15-20 minutes, every few minutes at peak. The Auchan Cloche d’Or shopping centre and the Cloche d’Or business park are a short bus ride south. Belair's restaurants on Avenue du X Septembre are a 10-minute walk. Hotel Parc Belair on the border is the main option, typically 140-170 EUR with parking included.

Frequently asked questions

Is Parc de Merl fenced for dogs?

There is a dedicated fenced dog run inside the park. The rest of the park requires dogs on lead.

Merl or Bonnevoie for value?

Bonnevoie is cheaper and has more restaurants; Merl is quieter and has the park. Choose Bonnevoie for one or two nights, Merl if you are staying a week with kids.